My Favorite Non-Traditional Learning Methods by Mason

My Favorite Non-Traditional Learning Methods by Mason - September 2024 Scholarship Essay

One of my favorite non-traditional ways to learn is immersion—deep-diving into a subject by interacting with it in natural, practical ways rather than through traditional study methods like textbooks or lectures. Immersion creates a more intuitive grasp of a subject because you’re directly engaging with it, often in real-life contexts. It's like learning a language by traveling to the country where it’s spoken instead of sitting in a classroom. This approach fosters a deeper connection to the material because it becomes a part of your lived experience, rather than just abstract information.

I find documentaries to be a great tool for immersion because they offer a visual and emotional connection to real-world events, ideas, or cultures. Unlike reading about something in a book, documentaries allow you to see, hear, and feel the experiences of others, which makes the learning process more engaging. You can see historical events come to life, hear expert insights, or witness the beauty and complexity of a scientific process—all of which make abstract concepts feel more real and impactful.

Another way I enjoy learning is through games and simulations. Video games, especially those rooted in historical events, politics, or even economics, can provide a hands-on understanding of complex topics. For example, games like *Civilization* or *Assassin’s Creed* offer insights into historical periods, cultures, and decision-making processes in ways that make you feel like you're part of history itself. The decision-making, strategy, and exploration involved in these games encourage critical thinking and problem-solving, all while you're enjoying the experience.

Podcasts are another excellent medium I turn to for non-traditional learning. The variety of subjects you can explore through interviews, stories, and expert discussions is endless. It's a form of learning that fits into a busy schedule, as you can listen while commuting, working out, or doing household tasks. Podcasts often present complex subjects in more digestible ways, with hosts breaking down heavy topics like science, politics, or philosophy into more relatable, everyday language.

Currently, outside of a school setting, I’m diving into the world of storytelling and visual narratives, especially through comics and graphic novels. I'm fascinated by the combination of art and storytelling in this medium, where dialogue, visual cues, and artistic styles converge to tell a story in a uniquely powerful way. There's a lot to learn about how color, line, and design influence the emotional impact of a story, and how creators use visual symbolism to convey complex themes.

I’m also exploring the evolution of comic book characters and narratives over time, particularly how they’ve shifted in response to cultural and societal changes. It's interesting to see how different eras influence character development, story arcs, and even the roles of heroes and villains. For example, superhero stories from the 1940s often focused on patriotism and wartime heroism, while modern-day comics delve into themes of identity, social justice, and mental health. Studying these shifts helps me understand how art and storytelling reflect and influence real-world issues, which is something I can apply to my own creative projects.

What I love about this kind of non-traditional learning is that it never feels like work. Whether I'm listening to a podcast while cooking or reading a graphic novel to unwind, I'm still absorbing new information and expanding my understanding of the world. Learning becomes part of the flow of life rather than something I have to carve out special time for, and I think that’s what makes it so effective.

Immersive learning also encourages curiosity and self-directed exploration. You can follow your interests wherever they lead, jumping from one topic to another without rigid boundaries. This method feels more natural and holistic than traditional classroom learning because it allows you to connect ideas across different fields in ways that feel meaningful and personal.

In short, immersion, whether through documentaries, games, podcasts, or comics, is my favorite way to learn because it allows me to experience ideas rather than just read about them. It turns learning into something fluid and enjoyable rather than a task to be completed, and I think that’s what makes it stick.